Hair removal shampoos, also known as depilatories, work by breaking down the structure of hair, causing it to weaken and easily wash away. They do not, however, work like a shampoo used to wash hair.
How Chemical Hair Removers Target Hair Structure
Chemical depilatories, such as Nair, function by targeting the protein structure of hair. Here's how:
- Keratin's Role: Each hair strand is primarily composed of protein fibers known as keratin. These fibers are like twisted yarn held together by chemical bonds.
- Breaking the Bonds: The active chemicals in hair removal products work to weaken and break these chemical bonds. This process disrupts the structural integrity of the hair.
- Dissolving the Hair: Once the bonds are sufficiently broken, the hair weakens and the hair can be easily removed, usually by wiping or rinsing. The hair itself, at the surface, is being dissolved by the chemical compounds.
Key Points about Hair Removal Shampoos:
- Not a True Shampoo: Despite the name, they do not clean hair. Their sole purpose is hair removal.
- Surface Action: They affect the hair shaft at the surface of the skin. They do not impact the hair follicle below the skin.
- Temporary Results: Hair removal shampoos offer temporary results, typically lasting from a few days up to a couple of weeks because the hair grows back from the follicle.
- Potential Irritation: As they use strong chemicals, they may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions for some people. It is recommended to do a patch test before applying it to a large area.
| Feature | Hair Removal Shampoo | Traditional Shampoo |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Dissolves and removes hair | Cleans hair and scalp |
| Action | Breaks down chemical bonds in hair protein (keratin) | Cleanses dirt, oil, and buildup |
| Effect | Temporary hair removal at the surface | Hair cleansing only |
